8 Perfect-for-Winter Soup Recipes

On what feels like a never-ending quest for a seasonal meal to please all palates? Look no further than these eight soup recipes: simple, surprising, delicious.

1 of 8Marcus Nilsson

Miso and Potsticker Soup With Crispy Snap Peas

Add umami flavor to this comforting meal-in-a-bowl by whisking in a bit of white miso, which can be found in the refrigerated section of the supermarket. Adding a little water to the miso prevents clumping and ensures the paste will dissolve fully. If you're nervous about doing this in a hot pan, whisk the ingredients together in a measuring cup or bowl.

Greek Shrimp and Dill Soup

Creating a quick, homemade stock is easier than you think and adds a ton of extra flavor to this fish-based soup. Simply combine the shrimp shells with water, bring to a boil, remove from heat, and let stand for 15 minutes. If you can’t find shell-on shrimp, use two jars of clam juice in the broth instead.

Mushroom and Leek Soup With Soba Noodles

Give this Asian-inspired dish a boost of flavor by adding a 2-inch piece of Parmesan rind to the cooking liquid. Once the broth is prepared, add the soba, thin noodles made with buckwheat flour (they have fewer calories and carbohydrates than regular white-flour pasta). If you can’t find soba noodles, use udon or ramen noodles instead.

Irish Beef, Cabbage, and Potato Soup

There’s no need to reserve the beloved beef, cabbage, and potato trio for St. Patrick’s Day. This hearty Irish fare tastes especially good on chilly winter nights. From start to finish the soup takes approximately an hour and a half, but the payoff will be clear when your entire family asks for seconds.

Creamy Celery Root Soup With Candied Walnuts

While heavy cream gives the soup its velvety texture, an apple (any variety will work) lends an unexpected hint of sweetness. To make a lower-fat version, use half-and-half instead of cream. The end result may not be quite as decedent, but it will still be just as delicious.

Chicken and Barley Soup

Barley is a high-fiber grain that helps lower cholesterol, reduces the risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, and aids regularity. It has a springy pasta-like texture and a mild, creamy flavor. This delicious soup calls for “pearl” barley, which has the same taste and texture but cooks faster than the hulled variety.

Chickpea and Quinoa Tortilla Soup

This Mexican favorite won’t disappoint. The vegetarian soup features good-for-you ingredients like quinoa and chickpeas, has big, bold flavors, and comes together in just 25 minutes. Serve the soup with an array of tasting toppings, like cilantro, chopped avocado, grated Cheddar, lime wedges, and crushed tortilla chips.

Pea and Lettuce Soup With Ham and Cheese Tartines

If you’re sick of salads but itching to use that head of romaine lettuce before it spoils, use it as the secret ingredient in this tasty bright green soup. When serving the dish as an appetizer or a light lunch, skip the tartines and serve the soup on its own.